Looking out from Machu Picchu: alternative activities in Peru

Last year it was estimated that a record 4.4 million tourists visited Peru, with 1.5 million foreign arrivals having visited in the first four months alone.

This is no surprise however, when you consider that the
country has invested millions into its image and the tourism industry itself.

One of the biggest problems that Peru currently faces however, is diversifying away from Machu Picchu; the country’s most celebrated and revered cultural attraction.

In 2016 UNESCO threatened to put the heritage site on its
list of places in danger unless greater levels of control were placed on
tourism.

Since then, the Peruvian Government has put enhanced entrance restrictions on the amount of people that are able to visit the site each day, and alternative treks to the site are being promoted throughout the region.

With an eye on diversifying what you can get up to in the country however, what else can someone see and do in one of the most beautiful countries in the world?

Investigate the wonder of the Nazca Lines

Discovered in the 1920s, the Nazca Lines are some of the most iconic landmarks in South America and are spread over 500 square kilometers, with some designs being up to six miles in length.

Created between 200 BC and 700 AD, there are more than 70
different designs that were created by the country’s native people.

Some of the creations represent fish, monkeys, hummingbirds,
and even sharks, and it is an incredible thought that the lines have survived
almost completely for thousands of years.

Take in the ancient wonder of Kuélap

Accessible with newly built cable cars, it’s also worth
taking the old route up to the citadel so that you get to pass through local
communities, which can make a real difference to those that live nearby.

Once home to more than 5,000 people (sometimes known as the Cloud Warriors), there are around 400 structures to explore, and is actually located on a higher mountain than Machu Picchu and is spread across a far greater area.

Enjoy the white city of Arequipa

Often referred to as “The White City”, Arequipa was once the
capital of Peru’s Arequipa Region before it was colonised in the 16th
century.

Officially Peru’s second-largest city, although one-tenth
the size of Lima, Arequipa is one of the most stunning cities in the world and
sits between no less than three volcanos.

Featuring a swathe of beautifully designed and crafted baroque
buildings, the city’s pinnacle is its breath-taking 17th century
cathedral, which features a museum displaying valuable pieces of art and
culture that reflects the strong faith of the country

Aside from stunning architecture, the city has a range of
natural sites including Colca Canyon, Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve,
and Volcan Misti itself.

Find out more about the wonderful city of Arequipa, or contact us on 0113 262 529 to find out what else you can do in the beautiful country of Peru outside of Machu Picchu.